Public hearing likely next month

The Town of Columbus is considering allowing yard, garage and estate sale signs after a resident came to council last month expressing concerns.

Council met Thursday, Nov. 17 and reviewed a draft ordinance created by the planning board.

The town currently prohibits yard sale signs, but after Becky Bell said in October that she had problems notifying people of her yard sales, council decided to allow them. The planning board made a recommendation, using Tryon’s sign ordinance as a guide. Columbus is proposing changes to its sign ordinance that would allow yard/estate sale signs to be displayed 24 hours prior to the sale and removed within 24 hours after the sale. Up to three 4-square-foot signs would be allowed, with one on the premises and two off premises, according to the draft ordinance.

Councilwoman Ernie Kan expressed concern that 4 square feet was too large.

“If they get big and tacky looking it takes away from our appearance,” said Kan.

She said yard sale signs were not allowed originally because of their appearance while the town was trying to become more tourist-friendly. Other council members said they didn’t have a problem with 4 square feet, saying that could be a sign 2 feet by 2 feet or 3 feet by 1 foot.

Council also discussed enforcement last week and how to ensure signs are taken down according to the ordinance.

The town could consider giving residents 24 hours to remove the signs if they are not removed in the appropriate timeframe, then charging a $10 for not heeding the warning.

The town sent suggestions back to the planning board and will likely schedule a public hearing for council’s Dec. 15 meeting.